McGuffey's Second Eclectic Reader

Lesson Xvii.

bus'y (biz'zy) mis'chief looked un'to glee

con triv'ing ring'lets nod'dle drew nun

press'ing fin'gers car'pet wise lips

em brace' pon'der lash'es climb true

MY GOOD-FOR-NOTHING.

1. "What are you good for, my brave little man? Answer that question for me, if you can,-- You, with your fingers as white as a nun,-- You, with your ringlets as bright as the sun. All the day long, with your busy contriving, Into all mischief and fun you are driving; See if your wise little noddle can tell What you are good for. Now ponder it well."

2. Over the carpet the dear little feet Came with a patter to climb on my seat; Two merry eyes, full of frolic and glee, Under their lashes looked up unto me; Two little hands pressing soft on my face, Drew me down close in a loving embrace; Two rosy lips gave the answer so true, "Good to love you, mamma, good to love you."

Emily Huntington Miller.